Justin Timberlake scores small win in DWI case

JT avoids DWI criminal charges, accepting a plea deal for Driving While Ability Impaired and paying a fine.

Justin Timberlake has reached a plea deal in his DWI case, avoiding any criminal charges or drunk driving offenses. 

According to TMZ, Timberlake’s lawyer, Edward Burke Jr., and prosecutors secured the agreement, which was approved by a judge. The original DWI charge has been dropped, and Timberlake has instead pleaded to Driving While Ability Impaired, which is not considered a drunk driving offense.

As part of the deal, Timberlake will face a fine between $300 and $500, with the exact amount to be determined during a hearing. Despite this legal outcome, Timberlake will have his driver’s license suspended for one year in New York, a result of his refusal to take a Breathalyzer test when pulled over.

The incident dates back to June 18, when Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor after allegedly running a stop sign and failing to stay on the correct side of the road. Though police claimed he failed sobriety tests, Timberlake insisted he had only consumed one martini. 

Despite body cam footage of the arrest, prosecutors opted for the lesser charge, either deeming it fair or recognizing the challenges of pursuing a trial. Ultimately, Timberlake avoids more severe penalties, coming away with a relatively minor traffic violation.